The DESANTIS DUAL CARRY Black SIG P220 P226 For Glock 17 Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of holsters. But when I first laid eyes on the DESANTIS DUAL CARRY Black SIG P220 P226 For Glock 17, I knew this wasn’t just another piece of leather. This holster from Desantis promises versatility, adapting to both inside-the-waistband (IWB) and outside-the-waistband (OWB) carry, accommodating a range of popular firearms.
I needed a holster that could adapt to different carry positions depending on my clothing and activity. I was tired of swapping between dedicated IWB and OWB holsters. Upon unboxing, the DESANTIS DUAL CARRY impressed me with its seemingly robust construction and the deep black leather finish. The leather felt firm, hinting at durability, yet supple enough to suggest comfort against the body.
Compared to some hybrid Kydex/leather holsters I’ve used, the DESANTIS DUAL CARRY offered a more traditional, all-leather approach. I’ve also used minimalist IWB holsters that clip directly to the trigger guard, but the DESANTIS appeared to offer more complete gun protection. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic – excited by the potential versatility but also aware that all-leather holsters can sometimes lack the retention and rigidity of their Kydex counterparts.
Real-World Testing: Putting DESANTIS DUAL CARRY Black SIG P220 P226 For Glock 17 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the DESANTIS DUAL CARRY at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I wanted to see how it performed with my Glock 17, which the holster is designed to fit. The weather was moderately humid, providing a good test of the leather’s potential to retain moisture.
The draw was surprisingly smooth, requiring a firm but consistent pull. The holster molded to the Glock 17 well, offering good retention without being overly tight. One initial issue I noticed was that the OWB belt loops were a bit snug for my standard 1.5-inch tactical belt, requiring some extra effort to thread through.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, both at the range and during concealed carry, the DESANTIS DUAL CARRY has largely held up well. The leather has softened slightly, conforming even better to my body and firearm. There’s minimal sign of wear and tear, mainly some slight scuffing around the belt loop attachment points.
Maintaining the holster is relatively simple; I occasionally wipe it down with a leather conditioner to prevent it from drying out. This is especially important given the Texas heat where I live. Compared to some of my Kydex holsters, the DESANTIS requires a bit more care but offers a more comfortable carry experience.
Breaking Down the Features of DESANTIS DUAL CARRY Black SIG P220 P226 For Glock 17
Specifications
- Material: The DESANTIS DUAL CARRY is constructed from high-quality black leather. This offers a classic look and comfortable feel against the body, although it requires more maintenance than synthetic alternatives.
- Compatibility: This holster is specifically molded to fit the Glock 17/22 and SIG P220/P226. This specific fit is crucial for proper retention and safe carry.
- Carry Options: As the name suggests, the DESANTIS DUAL CARRY supports both IWB and OWB carry. This versatility makes it adaptable to various clothing styles and situations.
- Hand Orientation: This particular model is designed for right-hand draw. Left-handed shooters will need to seek out a dedicated left-hand version.
- Retention: The holster relies on friction and precise molding for retention. This is adjustable to a degree by breaking in the leather.
Performance & Functionality
The DESANTIS DUAL CARRY performs admirably in its intended role: providing a secure and relatively comfortable carry option for full-sized pistols. Accuracy and reliability are not directly impacted by the holster itself, but a secure fit improves draw speed and consistency. Its main strengths are its versatility and comfort, while a potential weakness is the break-in period required to achieve optimal retention.
The holster meets my expectations for a traditional leather holster in this price range. It offers a good balance of comfort, concealability, and security. It’s not a high-speed competition rig, but it’s perfect for everyday carry.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the DESANTIS DUAL CARRY is solid, using thick leather that feels durable. The molding is precise, ensuring a snug fit for compatible firearms. The holster is designed to be relatively low-profile, minimizing bulk whether carried IWB or OWB.
There is a slight learning curve associated with achieving a consistent draw, as the leather requires a break-in period. However, once broken in, the draw becomes smooth and natural. The holster’s design prioritizes comfort and concealability over lightning-fast draws.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the DESANTIS DUAL CARRY should last for years. The leather is resistant to tearing and cracking, and the stitching is reinforced in key areas. Regular cleaning and conditioning are essential to prevent the leather from drying out and cracking, especially in humid environments.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning with appropriate leather products. The simplicity of the design means there are no small parts to break or replace.
Accessories and Customization Options
The DESANTIS DUAL CARRY is primarily a standalone holster and doesn’t offer extensive customization options. There are no accessory rails or mounting points for lights or lasers. The retention is primarily adjusted by breaking in the leather.
While not specifically designed for aftermarket accessories, the holster’s compatibility with standard 1.5-inch belts allows for use with various belt buckles and attachments. Aftermarket belt clips could potentially be used for IWB carry, but this would require modification.
Pros and Cons of DESANTIS DUAL CARRY Black SIG P220 P226 For Glock 17
Pros
- Versatile Carry: Supports both IWB and OWB carry styles, offering flexibility for different situations and clothing.
- Comfortable Leather Construction: The all-leather design provides a comfortable feel against the body, especially during extended wear.
- Good Concealment: The relatively low-profile design minimizes printing, making it easier to conceal a full-sized firearm.
- Durable Build: The use of high-quality leather and reinforced stitching ensures long-lasting durability.
- Affordable Price: At around $30, this holster offers excellent value for its versatility and quality.
Cons
- Break-In Period Required: The leather requires a break-in period to achieve optimal retention and draw smoothness.
- Limited Customization: There are few options for adding accessories or adjusting retention beyond breaking in the leather.
Who Should Buy DESANTIS DUAL CARRY Black SIG P220 P226 For Glock 17?
The DESANTIS DUAL CARRY is perfect for individuals who own a Glock 17/22 or SIG P220/P226 and desire a versatile holster that can adapt to different carry positions. It’s ideal for everyday concealed carry, range use, and training scenarios where comfort and flexibility are prioritized. It’s also a good option for those new to concealed carry who want to experiment with both IWB and OWB styles without investing in multiple holsters.
Those who prioritize rapid draw speed or require a holster with accessory mounting points should skip this product. Individuals who prefer the rigidity and low-maintenance of Kydex holsters might also find the DESANTIS less appealing.
A quality leather belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper support and stability, especially during IWB carry. Regular leather conditioning is also essential to maintain the holster’s integrity and prevent cracking.
Conclusion on DESANTIS DUAL CARRY Black SIG P220 P226 For Glock 17
The DESANTIS DUAL CARRY Black SIG P220 P226 For Glock 17 offers a solid blend of versatility, comfort, and affordability. While it requires a break-in period and lacks advanced features like adjustable retention or accessory mounting points, its ability to function as both an IWB and OWB holster makes it a compelling option for Glock 17 and SIG P220/P226 owners.
At a price point of $29.99, the DESANTIS DUAL CARRY provides excellent value. The all-leather construction feels comfortable and durable. Yes, I would personally recommend the DESANTIS DUAL CARRY to anyone seeking a reliable and adaptable holster for their Glock 17 or SIG P220/P226. Give it a try; you might just find it’s the only holster you need.